Tribute

It is with deep sadness that the family of the late Richard Francis McHugh announce his sudden passing at his home in Duncan,
BC on Saturday, August 26th, 2023, at the age of 71 years. Our lives are forever changed as we say goodbye to an amazing husband, devoted father, caring brother, and cherished friend. Richard’s passing has left an emptiness that can never be filled, but
his memory will forever live on in our hearts.
Leaving to mourn with fond and loving memories are his wife, Soledad and his children: Michelle (Jeff) Plecas and Will (Fiona)
Madison; Grandchildren: Marley, Lucas and Lilah, all residing on Vancouver Island where Richard lived.
Also left to mourn are his brothers: Carl (Linda) McHugh, and Bern (Linda) McHugh, all residing in Newfoundland, as well as a
large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous other relatives and friends.
Predeceased by his daughter Terri Rebecca McHugh (Mar 21,1982 – Oct 13, 2016); three sisters; Geraldine (late Carleton) Foley;
Julia (late Owen) O’Neill and Bernadette (Ron) Pike; and five brothers: Reginald (late Gertrude); Gerald (Ann), Eddie (Carol), Pat
(Cecile), and Eugene (Sharon).
Richard Francis McHugh was born in Curling, NL to parents Gerald & Rebecca (Newhook) McHugh. He was raised in a large
loving family with seven brothers and three sisters. Together, they shared laughter, tears, countless stories, and a love and bond
that extended to their spouses, children and grandchildren which will live on for generations to come. Family was everything to
him and his love and dedication were transparent.
Richard was the father to Michelle (brother: Shannon), Terri and William. He was a pillar of support and strength, instilling his
values of the importance of family, kindness, compassion and strength. He was so proud of his children and always wanted to
ensure their happiness and well-being. He cherished every moment shared and you felt his love in every warm embrace.
In his early life Richard loved to ride his horse and his Harley motorcycle. He was a mechanic and loved to fix anything with a
motor and that passion to fix things continued throughout his whole life. Richard eventually moved away to work in the Yukon
where he made many memories and many friends in his lifetime but kept in close contact with a special few Dave B, Darcy and
Hardt. Your friendships meant the world to him.
Eventually Richard put down roots on Vancouver Island. He met his lovely wife Sol and they shared a beautiful life together in the
Cowichan Valley. He worked as a Red Seal Boiler mechanic and went on to become a First Nations addictions counsellor
incorporating his Mi’kmaq culture and years of knowledge walking the Red Road into his teachings.
He helped many people in his lifetime, whether he was providing a listening ear, lending a helping hand, or sharing a warm smile.
He had an amazing ability to touch the lives of those around him. He always had a joke or a funny remark and was always
determined to make you laugh. Richard was a gentle soul with a heart of gold, he was easy to talk to and always had wise advice
that made you feel comforted, supported and loved.
Richard is forever free from pain and suffering and reunited in heaven with his loved ones. Let his legacy continue to inspire us to
live our lives in the same way by showing kindness and love, to cherish one another and to never take life for granted. Until we
meet again, you will remain forever loved and forever in our hearts.
As per his request Cremation has taken place. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Thank you to Dr. Ismail and the staff at Valley Medical Clinic for your many years of care for Richard.
Expressions of sympathy may be added to the online guest book.
In lieu of Flowers, please do a random act of kindness in Richard’s memory